Family Law Exhibits for Texas Courts
Texas family law cases—including divorce, custody, and property division matters—require careful attention to TRCP 194.4 exchange deadlines and proper characterization of community vs. separate property. With 254 counties and varying local practices, understanding your court's specific requirements is essential. This guide covers exhibit preparation for divorce, SAPCR (custody), modifications, and enforcement actions.
Texas Quick Reference
| E-Filing System | eFileTexas ↗ |
| File Size Limit | 25 MB |
| Exchange Deadline | 30 days before trial (TRCP 194.4) |
| Primary Rule | TRCP 194.4, TRCP 166 |
Common Family Law Exhibits in Texas
Texas Family Law Tips
- 1Harris County (Houston) uses specific standing orders - check for exhibit requirements
- 2Dallas County has family court coordinators who may set exhibit exchange deadlines
- 3Inventory and Appraisement must be sworn and include ALL assets and liabilities
- 4Bates stamp financial documents for easy reference during property division testimony
- 5Texas is a community property state - clearly separate community vs. separate property exhibits
- 6eFileTexas is mandatory for attorneys - check county-specific filing requirements
- 7Consider organizing exhibits by asset type (real property, bank accounts, retirement, etc.)
Common Family Law Filing Mistakes in Texas
Family Law Exhibits in Texas: FAQ
What is the Sworn Inventory and Appraisement in Texas divorce cases?
The Sworn Inventory and Appraisement is a required document listing all community and separate property, along with debts. It must be sworn (signed under oath). Courts rely heavily on this document for property division. Missing assets can lead to sanctions or modification of the decree.
When must exhibits be exchanged in Texas family law cases?
Under TRCP 194.4, discovery responses (including documents/exhibits you intend to use) must be exchanged at least 30 days before trial. Local rules may impose earlier deadlines. Harris and Dallas counties often have specific scheduling orders.
How do I handle children's records in Texas custody exhibits?
Children's SSN, detailed medical records, and school records require careful handling. Redact SSN from exhibits. Medical records may require in camera review. School records are typically admissible but should be properly authenticated.
What are the e-filing requirements for Texas family courts?
eFileTexas is mandatory for attorneys in all Texas courts. Self-represented litigants have the option but aren't required. File size limit is 25 MB per document. Exhibits should be properly named and organized for the e-filing system.
How should I organize financial exhibits in a Texas divorce?
Organize by category: (1) Real property, (2) Bank accounts, (3) Retirement accounts, (4) Business interests, (5) Vehicles, (6) Personal property, (7) Debts. Bates stamp each section sequentially. This organization mirrors the Inventory and Appraisement structure.
Related Resources
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